Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
ITEM 2
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
28
Executive Overview
28
Description of Operating Segments
29
Results of Operations - Consolidated
29
Results of Operations - Segments
31
Investments
38
Other Items
42
Income Taxes
43
Critical Accounting Estimates
44
Statutory Surplus of Insurance Subsidiaries
45
Liquidity and Capital Resources
45
Off - Balance Sheet Arrangements
47
Contingencies and Regulatory Matters
47
Risks and Forward - Looking Statements
47
27
Table of Contents
Introduction
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations is intended to assist readers in understanding the interim consolidated results of operations and financial condition of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. and its subsidiaries (“THG”). Consolidated results of operations and financial condition are prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). This discussion should be read in conjunction with the interim consolidated financial statements and related footnotes included elsewhere in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on February 24, 2020.
Results of operations include the accounts of The Hanover Insurance Company (“Hanover Insurance”) and Citizens Insurance Company of America (“Citizens”), our principal property and casualty companies; and other insurance and non-insurance subsidiaries. Our results of operations also include the results of our discontinued operations, consisting of our former accident and health and life insurance businesses, as well as our former Chaucer business.
Executive Overview
Business operations consist of three operating segments: Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other.
Our strategy, which focuses on the independent agency distribution channel, supports THG’s commitment to our agency partners. It is designed to generate profitable growth by leveraging the strengths of our distribution approach, including expansion of our agency footprint in underpenetrated geographies, as warranted. As part of that strategy, we have increased our capabilities in specialty markets and made investments designed to develop growth solutions for our agency distribution channel. Our goal is to grow responsibly in all of our businesses, while managing volatility.
The outbreak of the novel coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, and subsequent global pandemic (“Pandemic”) significantly impacted the U.S. and global financial markets and economies during the nine months ended September 30, 2020. Circumstances relating to the Pandemic are unprecedented in scope and impact, continue to evolve, and are complex and uncertain. Our investment portfolio was affected by the deterioration in investment markets during March 2020, as well as volatility in the subsequent months. In addition, we experienced both favorable and adverse effects from the Pandemic on our underwriting results and operations, as well as our financial condition, during March through September of 2020. However, we continue to believe that the Pandemic’s economic impacts on our 2020 results should be manageable. The severity, duration and long-term impacts of the Pandemic, including continued declines in general economic conditions, adverse impacts to our investment portfolio and uncertainty around possible and actual governmental responses to the crisis, may significantly affect the property and casualty insurance industry, our business, and our financial results over the intermediate and long-term. (See “Contingencies and Regulatory Matters” and “Item 1A – Risk Factors” for further discussion).
During the nine months ended September 30, 2020, our net income was $194.1 million, compared to $315.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $121.2 million, primarily due to changes in the fair value of equity securities and, to a lesser extent, impairment losses on fixed income securities.
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes (a non-GAAP financial measure; see also “Results of Operations – Consolidated – Non-GAAP Financial Measures”) was $334.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $343.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $8.7 million. This decrease was primarily due to higher catastrophe losses and, to a lesser extent, lower net investment income. These items were partially offset by lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses, primarily in our personal and commercial automobile lines, and a non-recurring premium tax benefit of $13.8 million due to a Michigan refund related to tax years 2014 through 2016. The lower current accident year losses were primarily due to a reduced level of economic activity as a result of the Pandemic.
Pre-tax catastrophe losses were $251.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $134.2 million during the same period of 2019. The increase of $117.4 million was primarily due to $38.2 million in property damages related to riots and civil unrest in several major cities across the country, as well as wind and hail storms throughout the Midwest and Southeast, and Hurricane Isaias. Net favorable development on prior years’ loss and loss adjustment expense (“LAE”) reserves (“prior years’ loss reserves”) was $9.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, while development was insignificant overall for the nine months ended September 30, 2019.
Commercial Lines
Our account-focused approach to the small commercial market, distinctiveness in the middle market, and continued development of specialty lines provides us with a diversified portfolio of products and delivers significant value to agents and policyholders. We continue to pursue our core strategy of developing strong partnerships with agents, enhanced franchise value through selective distribution, distinctive products and coverages, and continued investment in industry segmentation. Net premiums written increased 0.7% in the first nine months of 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. The modest premium growth during 2020 reflects a reduction in insured business activity as a result of the Pandemic.
28
Table of Contents
Underwriting results declined in the first nine months of 2020 , primarily due to higher catastrophe losses , partially offset by lower non- catastrophe current accident year losses. The lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses in our specialty industrial property, commercial automobile , and marine lines were partially offset by reserve provision s for exposure s related to the Pandemic and higher property losses in our commercial multiple peril lin e . The lower current accident year losses were primarily due to a reduced level of economic activity as a result of the Pandemic. The competitive nature of the Commercial Lines market requires us to be highly disciplined in our underwriting process to ensure that we write business at acceptable margins, and we continue to seek rate increases across many lines of business. Due to the Pandemic , and the resulting economic downturn affecting our Commercial Lines businesses, there is an increased level of uncertainty in our ability to grow our business and maintain or improve our underwriting profitability in this environment .
Personal Lines
Personal Lines focuses on partnering with high quality, value-oriented agencies that deliver consultative selling to customers and stress the importance of account rounding (the conversion of single policy customers to accounts with multiple policies and additional coverages, to address customers’ broader objectives). Approximately 85% of our policies in force have been issued to customers with multiple policies and/or coverages with us. We are focused on seeking profitable growth opportunities, building a distinctive position in the market in order to meet our customers’ needs and diversifying geographically. We continue to seek appropriate rate increases that meet or exceed underlying loss cost trends, subject to regulatory and competitive considerations. Due to the Pandemic, and the resulting economic downturn affecting our Personal Lines businesses, there is an increased level of uncertainty in our ability to grow our business and maintain or improve our underwriting profitability in this environment.
Net premiums written decreased by 0.5% in the first nine months of 2020, compared to the same period in 2019. During the second quarter of 2020, we returned approximately $30 million of premiums to our eligible personal automobile customers in all of our markets, providing financial relief during the Pandemic. Excluding the impact of the premium refund, net written premiums increased 1.6%. Underwriting results improved in the first nine months of 2020, primarily due to lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses in our personal automobile line, a favorable change in development of prior years’ loss reserves and a non-recurring premium tax benefit, partially offset by higher catastrophe losses. The lower personal automobile losses were due to fewer accidents and decreased claim activity resulting from fewer miles driven as a result of the Pandemic.
Description of Operating Segments
Primary business operations include insurance products and services currently provided through three operating segments: Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other. Commercial Lines includes commercial multiple peril, commercial automobile, workers’ compensation and other commercial coverages, such as management and professional liability, marine, Hanover Programs, specialty industrial and commercial property, monoline general liability and surety. Personal Lines includes personal automobile, homeowners and other personal coverages, such as umbrella. Included in the “Other” segment are Opus Investment Management, Inc., which markets investment management services to institutions, pension funds, and other organizations; earnings on holding company assets; holding company and other expenses, including certain costs associated with retirement benefits due to our former life insurance employees and agents; and a run-off voluntary property and casualty pools business. We present the separate financial information of each segment consistent with the manner in which our chief operating decision maker evaluates results in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance.
We report interest expense on debt separately from the earnings of our operating segments. This consists primarily of interest on our senior and subordinated debentures.
Results of Operations – Consolidated
Consolidated net income for both the three months ended September 30, 2020 and the three months ended September 30, 2019 was $118.9 million. Net income remained flat year-over-year primarily due to consistent operating income combined with offsetting fluctuations in non-operating and discontinued items. After-tax net realized and unrealized investment gains increased $17.2 million in the third quarter of 2020 as compared to the third quarter of 2019. This was offset by the net loss from repayment of debt of $6.1 million in the third quarter of 2020, as well as the absence, in 2020, of Chaucer related earnings and tax benefits totaling $12.9 million.
Consolidated net income for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $194.1 million, compared to $315.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $121.2 million. The year-over-year comparison of consolidated net income was primarily affected by an increase in after-tax net realized and unrealized investment losses of approximately $110.4 million, primarily related to the change in fair value of equity securities and, to a lesser extent, an increase in impairment losses on investments. In addition, lower operating income in 2020 as compared to 2019 and the aforementioned loss on the repayment of debt contributed to the change. Operating income decreased primarily as a result of higher catastrophe losses and, to a lesser extent, lower net investment income. These decreases in operating income were partially offset by lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses, as well as a non-recurring premium tax benefit received in the second quarter of 2020.
29
Table of Contents
The following table reflects operating income before interest expense and income taxes for each operating segment and a reconciliation to consolidated net income from operating income before interest expense and income taxes (a non-GAAP measure).
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
(in millions)
2020
2019
2020
2019
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes:
Commercial Lines
$
62.3
$
74.1
$
172.2
$
227.1
Personal Lines
64.2
50.2
161.7
108.7
Other
1.9
2.0
0.5
7.3
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes
128.4
126.3
334.4
343.1
Interest expense on debt
(9.8
)
(9.4
)
(28.6
)
(28.1
)
Operating income before income taxes
118.6
116.9
305.8
315.0
Income tax expense on operating income
(25.1
)
(23.9
)
(62.8
)
(63.6
)
Operating income
93.5
93.0
243.0
251.4
Non-operating items:
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
37.7
14.8
(60.2
)
75.1
Net loss from repayment of debt
(6.1
)
—
(6.2
)
—
Effect of new tax regulations on Chaucer gain on sale
—
4.4
—
(1.2
)
Other non-operating
(1.6
)
(1.4
)
(1.6
)
(1.4
)
Income tax benefit (expense) on non-operating items
(4.0
)
0.4
21.1
(5.1
)
Income from continuing operations, net of taxes
119.5
111.2
196.1
318.8
Discontinued operations (net of taxes):
Sale of Chaucer business
—
6.4
—
(2.6
)
Income from Chaucer business
—
2.1
—
1.6
Loss from discontinued life businesses
(0.6
)
(0.8
)
(2.0
)
(2.5
)
Net income
$
118.9
$
118.9
$
194.1
$
315.3
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In addition to consolidated net income, discussed above, we assess our financial performance based upon pre-tax “operating income,” and we assess the operating performance of each of our three operating segments based upon the pre-tax operating income (loss) generated by each segment. As reflected in the table above, operating income before interest and taxes excludes interest expense on debt and certain other items which we believe are not indicative of our core operations, such as net realized and unrealized investment gains and losses. Such gains and losses are excluded since they are determined by interest rates, financial markets and the timing of sales. Also, operating income before interest and taxes excludes net gains and losses on disposals of businesses, gains and losses related to the repayment of debt, discontinued operations, costs to acquire businesses, restructuring costs, the cumulative effect of accounting changes and certain other items. Although the items excluded from operating income before interest and taxes are important components in understanding and assessing our overall financial performance, we believe a discussion of operating income before interest and taxes enhances an investor’s understanding of our results of operations by highlighting net income attributable to the core operations of the business. However, operating income before interest and taxes, which is a non-GAAP measure, should not be construed as a substitute for income before income taxes or income from continuing operations, and operating income should not be construed as a substitute for net income.
Catastrophe losses and prior years’ reserve development are significant components in understanding and assessing the financial performance of our business. Management reviews and evaluates catastrophes and prior years’ reserve development separately from the other components of earnings. References to “current accident year underwriting results” exclude prior accident year reserve development and may also be presented “excluding catastrophes.” Prior years’ reserve development and catastrophes are not predictable as to timing or the amount that will affect the results of our operations and have an effect on each year’s operating and net income. Management believes that providing certain financial metrics and trends excluding the effects of catastrophes and prior years’ reserve development helps investors to understand the variability in periodic earnings and to evaluate the underlying performance of our operations. Discussion of catastrophe losses in this Management’s Discussion and Analysis includes development on prior years’ catastrophe reserves and, unless otherwise indicated, such development is excluded from discussions of prior year loss and LAE reserve development.
30
Table of Contents
Results of Operations – Segments
The following is our discussion and analysis of the results of operations by business segment. The operating results are presented before interest expense, taxes and other items which management believes are not indicative of our core operations, including realized gains and losses, as well as unrealized gains and losses on equity securities, and the results of discontinued operations.
The following table summarizes the results of operations for the periods indicated:
Three Months Ended
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
September 30,
(in millions)
2020
2019
2020
2019
Operating revenues
Net premiums written
$
1,268.5
$
1,242.9
$
3,486.4
$
3,478.7
Net premiums earned
1,135.4
$
1,124.1
3,373.4
$
3,330.2
Net investment income
67.6
68.8
194.9
208.6
Other income
9.1
7.0
22.2
18.9
Total operating revenues
1,212.1
1,199.9
3,590.5
3,557.7
Losses and operating expenses
Losses and LAE
709.0
705.3
2,149.2
2,122.6
Amortization of deferred acquisition costs
237.7
232.8
711.9
692.8
Other operating expenses
137.0
135.5
395.0
399.2
Total losses and operating expenses
1,083.7
1,073.6
3,256.1
3,214.6
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes
$
128.4
$
126.3
$
334.4
$
343.1
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes was $128.4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $126.3 million in the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $2.1 million. This increase was primarily due to lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses in our personal automobile line, partially offset by higher catastrophe losses.
Net premiums written increased $25.6 million in the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the three months ended September 30, 2019, due to growth in both our Commercial and Personal Lines segments.
Production and Underwriting Results
The following tables summarize premiums written on a gross and net basis, net premiums earned and loss (including catastrophe losses), LAE, expense and combined ratios for the Commercial Lines and Personal Lines segments. Loss, LAE, catastrophe loss and combined ratios shown below include prior year reserve development. These items are not meaningful for our Other segment.
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020
(dollars in millions)
Gross
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Earned
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Expense
Ratios
Combined
Ratios
Commercial Lines
$
884.7
$
760.5
$
665.1
5.1
62.4
34.5
96.9
Personal Lines
521.4
508.0
470.3
6.9
62.5
27.9
90.4
Total
$
1,406.1
$
1,268.5
$
1,135.4
5.8
62.4
31.8
94.2
Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
(dollars in millions)
Gross
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Earned
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Expense
Ratios
Combined
Ratios
Commercial Lines
$
858.2
$
746.4
$
663.5
3.3
60.5
34.7
95.2
Personal Lines
527.6
496.5
460.6
2.9
65.9
27.4
93.3
Total
$
1,385.8
$
1,242.9
$
1,124.1
3.1
62.7
31.7
94.4
31
Table of Contents
The following table summarizes net premiums written, and loss and LAE and catastrophe loss ratios by line of business for the Commercial Lines and Personal Lines segments. Loss and LAE and catastrophe loss ratios include prior year reserve development.
Three Months Ended September 30,
2020
2019
(dollars in millions)
Net
Premiums
Written
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Net
Premiums
Written
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Commercial Lines:
Commercial multiple peril
$
273.4
68.5
6.6
$
265.2
63.7
7.4
Commercial automobile
88.8
67.5
0.7
92.4
69.2
0.4
Workers’ compensation
79.0
48.4
—
82.7
54.9
—
Other commercial
319.3
59.7
6.5
306.1
56.9
1.9
Total Commercial Lines
$
760.5
62.4
5.1
$
746.4
60.5
3.3
Personal Lines:
Personal automobile
$
311.6
61.2
1.1
$
308.2
71.9
0.5
Homeowners
179.7
67.8
18.0
174.3
56.5
7.1
Other personal
16.7
29.1
1.4
14.0
42.0
5.0
Total Personal Lines
$
508.0
62.5
6.9
$
496.5
65.9
2.9
The following table summarizes GAAP underwriting results for the Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other segments and reconciles them to operating income before interest expense and income taxes.
Three Months Ended September 30,
2020
2019
(in millions)
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Total
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Total
Underwriting profit (loss),
excluding prior year reserve
development and catastrophes
$
48.4
$
76.3
$
—
$
124.7
$
46.8
$
47.6
$
(0.1
)
$
94.3
Prior year favorable (unfavorable)
loss and LAE reserve development
on non-catastrophe losses
3.9
(1.0
)
(0.3
)
2.6
5.6
(5.6
)
(0.3
)
(0.3
)
Prior year favorable (unfavorable)
catastrophe development
8.9
0.7
—
9.6
(0.7
)
0.7
—
—
Current year catastrophe losses
(42.5
)
(33.0
)
—
(75.5
)
(21.3
)
(13.9
)
—
(35.2
)
Underwriting profit (loss)
18.7
43.0
(0.3
)
61.4
30.4
28.8
(0.4
)
58.8
Net investment income
44.4
19.5
3.7
67.6
44.1
19.6
5.1
68.8
Fees and other income
3.8
3.5
1.8
9.1
2.7
3.1
1.2
7.0
Other operating expenses
(4.6
)
(1.8
)
(3.3
)
(9.7
)
(3.1
)
(1.3
)
(3.9
)
(8.3
)
Operating income before
interest expense and income taxes
$
62.3
$
64.2
$
1.9
$
128.4
$
74.1
$
50.2
$
2.0
$
126.3
Commercial Lines
Commercial Lines net premiums written were $760.5 million in the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $746.4 million in the three months ended September 30, 2019. This $14.1 million increase was primarily driven by pricing increases and strong retention.
Commercial Lines underwriting profit for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $18.7 million, compared to $30.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $11.7 million. Catastrophe losses for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $33.6 million, compared to $22.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. The $11.6 million increase was primarily due to wildfires on the West Coast and Hurricane Isaias. Favorable development on prior year’s loss reserves for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $3.9 million, compared to $5.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, an unfavorable change of $1.7 million.
32
Table of Contents
Commercial Lines current accident year underwriting profit, excluding catastrophes, was $48.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 , compared to $46.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019 . This $1.6 million in crease was primarily d riven by lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses. The lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses were due to lower property loss activity in our other commercial and commercial automobile lines, partially offset by higher property losses in our commercial multiple peril line .
We continue to manage underwriting performance through increased rates, pricing segmentation, specific underwriting actions and targeted new business growth. Our ability to achieve overall rate increases is affected by many factors, including regulatory activity and the current competitive pricing environment, particularly within the workers’ compensation line. Due to the Pandemic and the resulting economic downturn affecting our Commercial Lines segment, there is an increased level of uncertainty in our ability to grow our business and maintain or improve our underwriting profitability in this environment. The extent and duration of the Pandemic's future disruption to our businesses are unknown and may result in continued moderation in claims volumes due to a substantial reduction in business activity. For example, less traffic and congestion on the roads may result in fewer accidents involving our insureds in our commercial automobile line. In addition, a reduction in our insureds’ underlying business activity, as well as the inability of certain businesses to fully restart operations and recover from the economic impacts of the prolonged stay-at-home orders, may result in a significant reduction in our future commercial multiple peril, workers' compensation and general liability premium levels.
Personal Lines
Personal Lines net premiums written were $508.0 million in the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $496.5 million in the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $11.5 million, primarily driven by pricing increases.
Net premiums written in the personal automobile line of business for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $311.6 million, compared to $308.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $3.4 million. Personal automobile policies in force decreased by 1.7%. Net premiums written in the homeowners line of business for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $179.7 million, compared to $174.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $5.4 million. Homeowners policies in force decreased by 0.2%.
Personal Lines underwriting profit for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $43.0 million, compared to $28.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $14.2 million. Catastrophe losses for the three months ended September 30, 2020 were $32.3 million, compared to $13.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $19.1 million, primarily due to Hurricane Isaias. Unfavorable development on prior year’s loss reserves for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $1.0 million, compared to $5.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019, a favorable change of $4.6 million.
Personal Lines current accident year underwriting profit, excluding catastrophes, was $76.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $47.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. This $28.7 million increase was primarily due to lower current accident year losses in our personal automobile line. The lower personal automobile losses were due to fewer accidents and decreased claim activity resulting from fewer miles driven a result of the Pandemic.
We have been able to obtain rate increases in our Personal Lines markets and believe that our ability to obtain increases will continue over the long term. Our ability to maintain Personal Lines net premiums written may be affected, however, by price competition, and regulatory and legal activity and developments. See “Contingencies and Regulatory Matters.” Additionally, these factors along with weather-related loss volatility may also affect our ability to maintain and improve underwriting results. We monitor these trends and consider them in our rate actions. Due to the Pandemic and the resulting economic downturn affecting our Personal Lines segment, there is an increased level of uncertainty in our ability to retain or grow our business and maintain or improve our underwriting profitability in this environment. The extent and duration of the Pandemic's future disruption to our businesses are unknown and may result in a continued moderation in claims volumes due to a substantial reduction in customer activity including, for example, fewer miles driven by the insureds in our personal automobile line.
In addition, in 2019, Michigan enacted major reforms of its current system governing personal and commercial automobile insurance, especially related to automobile Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”) coverage. We believe that we are effectively executing the transition and will be able to navigate this market successfully. As of September 30, 2020, the net impact of these reforms was not significant to our total net premiums written and underwriting profit. For the full year 2019, net premiums written that were attributable to PIP coverage in Michigan were $159.7 million, or 3.5% of our total full year 2019 net premiums written, while Michigan personal automobile net premiums written represented 12% of THG’s total full year 2019 net premiums written. For more information, please refer to “Risk Factors – Michigan PIP Reform” in Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019.
Other
Our Other segment had operating income of $1.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020, consistent with $2.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019.
33
Table of Contents
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
Operating income before interest expense and income taxes was $334.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $343.1 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $8.7 million. This decrease was primarily due to higher catastrophe losses and lower net investment income. These items were partially offset by lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses primarily in our personal and commercial automobile lines and a non-recurring premium tax benefit. The lower current accident year losses were primarily due to a reduced level of economic activity as a result of the Pandemic. The increase in catastrophe losses was primarily due to property damages related to riots and civil unrest in several major cities across the country, wind and hailstorms throughout the Midwest and Southeast, and Hurricane Isaias.
Net premiums written increased by $7.7 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2019. Premiums grew during the period in both our Commercial and Personal Line segments, partially offset by the personal automobile premium refund of approximately $30 million in the second quarter.
Production and Underwriting Results
The following tables summarize premiums written on a gross and net basis, net premiums earned and loss (including catastrophe losses), LAE, expense and combined ratios for the Commercial Lines and Personal Lines segments. Loss, LAE, catastrophe loss and combined ratios shown below include prior year reserve development. These items are not meaningful for our Other segment.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020
(dollars in millions)
Gross
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Written
Net
Premiums
Earned
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Expense
Ratios
Combined
Ratios
Commercial Lines
$
2,441.6
$
2,083.0
$
1,999.6
6.1
62.9
34.3
97.2
Personal Lines
1,477.4
1,403.4
1,373.8
9.4
64.6
27.4
92.0
Total
$
3,919.0
$
3,486.4
$
3,373.4
7.5
63.7
31.5
95.2
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
(dollars in millions)
Gross
Premiums Written
Net
Premiums Written
Net
Premiums Earned
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Expense
Ratios
Combined
Ratios
Commercial Lines
$
2,387.2
$
2,068.5
$
1,974.7
2.8
60.3
34.7
95.0
Personal Lines
1,496.4
1,410.2
1,355.5
5.8
68.7
27.4
96.1
Total
$
3,883.6
$
3,478.7
$
3,330.2
4.0
63.7
31.7
95.4
The following table summarizes net premiums written, and loss and LAE and catastrophe loss ratios by line of business for the Commercial Lines and Personal Lines segments. Loss and LAE and catastrophe loss ratios include prior year reserve development.
Nine Months Ended September 30,
2020
2019
(dollars in millions)
Net
Premiums
Written
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Net
Premiums
Written
Loss & LAE
Ratios
Catastrophe
Loss Ratios
Commercial Lines:
Commercial multiple peril
$
712.6
72.1
12.0
$
699.5
61.6
6.3
Commercial automobile
256.4
68.3
0.6
256.1
71.5
0.5
Workers’ compensation
241.1
50.1
—
254.7
54.1
—
Other commercial
872.9
57.4
4.7
858.2
57.5
1.5
Total Commercial Lines
$
2,083.0
62.9
6.1
$
2,068.5
60.3
2.8
Personal Lines:
Personal automobile
$
867.8
60.9
1.2
$
895.3
71.9
0.5
Homeowners
491.0
74.1
24.6
477.0
64.7
15.8
Other personal
44.6
29.4
2.7
37.9
43.4
3.5
Total Personal Lines
$
1,403.4
64.6
9.4
$
1,410.2
68.7
5.8
34
Table of Contents
The following table summarizes GAAP underwriting results for the Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other segments and reconciles them to operating income before interest expense and income taxes.
Nine Months Ended September 30,
2020
2019
(in millions)
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Total
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Total
Underwriting profit (loss),
excluding prior year reserve
development and catastrophes
$
159.9
$
233.2
$
(0.1
)
$
393.0
$
134.5
$
140.6
$
(0.1
)
$
275.0
Prior year favorable (unfavorable)
loss and LAE reserve
development on
non-catastrophe losses
12.7
0.7
(3.9
)
9.5
17.1
(16.4
)
(0.9
)
(0.2
)
Prior year favorable (unfavorable)
catastrophe development
18.2
(1.6
)
—
16.6
18.1
2.4
—
20.5
Current year catastrophe losses
(140.4
)
(127.8
)
—
(268.2
)
(73.5
)
(81.2
)
—
(154.7
)
Underwriting profit (loss)
50.4
104.5
(4.0
)
150.9
96.2
45.4
(1.0
)
140.6
Net investment income
128.7
56.3
9.9
194.9
132.8
59.0
16.8
208.6
Fees and other income
8.6
8.0
5.6
22.2
6.7
8.6
3.6
18.9
Other operating expenses
(15.5
)
(7.1
)
(11.0
)
(33.6
)
(8.6
)
(4.3
)
(12.1
)
(25.0
)
Operating income before
interest expense and income taxes
$
172.2
$
161.7
$
0.5
$
334.4
$
227.1
$
108.7
$
7.3
$
343.1
Commercial Lines
Commercial Lines net premiums written were $2,083.0 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $2,068.5 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The modest premium growth during 2020 reflects a reduction in insured business activity as a result of the Pandemic.
Commercial Lines underwriting profit for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $50.4 million, compared to $96.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $45.8 million. Catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 were $122.2 million, compared to $55.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The $66.8 million increase was due to property damages related to the riots and civil unrest in several major cities across the country, wildfires on the West Coast, and Hurricane Isaias. Favorable development on prior years’ loss reserves for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $12.7 million, compared to $17.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, an unfavorable change of $4.4 million.
Commercial Lines current accident year underwriting profit, excluding catastrophes, was $159.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $134.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $25.4 million, primarily due to lower non-catastrophe current accident year losses. The lower current year non-catastrophe losses were primarily due to lower large property loss activity in our specialty industrial property and marine lines, and lower losses in our commercial automobile line, partially offset by reserve provisions for exposures due to the Pandemic and higher property losses in our commercial multiple peril line. The reserve provisions for exposures due to the Pandemic of approximately $19 million were primarily reflected in our workers’ compensation, healthcare, commercial multiple peril, management and professional liability, and surety lines. The lower current accident year losses were primarily due to a reduced level of economic activity as a result of the Pandemic.
Personal Lines
Personal Lines net premiums written were $1,403.4 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $1,410.2 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a decrease of $6.8 million. During the second quarter of 2020, we returned approximately $30 million of premiums to our eligible Personal Lines customers in all of our markets, providing financial relief during the Pandemic. Excluding the impact of the premium refund, net written premiums would have increased 1.6%.
Personal Lines underwriting profit for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $104.5 million, compared to $45.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, an increase of $59.1 million. Catastrophe losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 were $129.4 million, compared to $78.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The increase of $50.6 million was primarily due to several wind and hailstorms throughout the Midwest and Southeast and Hurricane Isaias. Favorable development on prior years’ loss reserves for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was $0.7 million, compared to unfavorable development of $16.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019, a favorable change of $17.1 million.
35
Table of Contents
Personal Lines current accident year underwriting profit, excluding catastrophes, was $ 233.2 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $ 140 . 6 million in the nine months ended September 30, 201 9 . This $9 2.6 million increase was primarily due to lower current accident year losses in our personal automobile line and , to a lesser extent, a non - recurring premium tax benefit. Personal automobile losses were lower due to fewer accidents and decreased claim activity resulting from fewer miles driven as a result of the Pandemi c.
Other
Our Other segment had operating income of $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $7.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. The decline of $6.8 million was primarily due to lower net investment income as a result of the deployment of cash in the prior year.
Reserve for Losses and Loss Adjustment Expenses
The table below provides a reconciliation of the gross beginning and ending reserve for unpaid losses and loss adjustment expenses.
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
(in millions)
2020
2019
Gross loss and LAE reserves, beginning of period
$
5,654.4
$
5,304.1
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses
1,574.8
1,472.6
Net loss and LAE reserves, beginning of period
4,079.6
3,831.5
Net incurred losses and LAE in respect of losses occurring in:
Current year (1)
2,176.0
2,142.9
Prior year non-catastrophe loss development
(9.5
)
0.2
Prior year catastrophe development
(16.6
)
(20.5
)
Total incurred losses and LAE
2,149.9
2,122.6
Net payments of losses and LAE in respect of losses occurring in:
Current year
863.5
889.2
Prior years
1,028.7
1,043.4
Total payments
1,892.2
1,932.6
Net reserve for losses and LAE, end of period
4,337.3
4,021.5
Reinsurance recoverable on unpaid losses
1,608.4
1,529.0
Gross reserve for losses and LAE, end of period
$
5,945.7
$
5,550.5
(1)
The nine months ended September 30, 2020 includes $0.7 million of non-operating expense.
36
Table of Contents
The table below summarizes the gross reserve for losses and LAE by line of business.
September 30,
December 31,
(in millions)
2020
2019
Commercial multiple peril
$
1,220.3
$
1,122.0
Workers’ compensation
696.1
698.2
Commercial automobile
443.2
427.0
Other commercial lines:
Hanover Programs
544.1
512.9
Management and professional liability
325.6
281.5
Monoline general liability
275.9
265.5
Umbrella
207.6
197.9
Marine
96.8
95.9
Surety
91.0
76.9
Specialty industrial and commercial property
83.9
71.1
Other lines
33.1
28.4
Total other commercial lines
1,658.0
1,530.1
Total Commercial Lines
4,017.6
3,777.3
Personal automobile
1,644.4
1,645.1
Homeowners and other personal
243.2
194.3
Total Personal Lines
1,887.6
1,839.4
Total Other Segment
40.5
37.7
Total loss and LAE reserves
$
5,945.7
$
5,654.4
“Other commercial lines – Other lines” in the table above is primarily comprised of fidelity and crime lines of business. Loss and LAE reserves in our “Total Other Segment” relate to our run-off voluntary assumed property and casualty reinsurance pools business.
The following table summarizes prior year (favorable) unfavorable development for the periods indicated:
Nine Months Ended September 30,
2020
2019
(in millions)
Loss & LAE
Catastrophe
Total
Loss & LAE
Catastrophe
Total
Commercial Lines
$
(12.7
)
$
(18.2
)
$
(30.9
)
$
(17.1
)
$
(18.1
)
$
(35.2
)
Personal Lines
(0.7
)
1.6
0.9
16.4
(2.4
)
14.0
Other Segment
3.9
—
3.9
0.9
—
0.9
Total prior year (favorable) unfavorable development
$
(9.5
)
$
(16.6
)
$
(26.1
)
$
0.2
$
(20.5
)
$
(20.3
)
It is not possible to know whether the factors that affected loss reserves in the first nine months of 2020 will also occur in future periods. We encourage you to read our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K for more information about our reserving process and the judgments, uncertainties and risks associated therewith.
Catastrophe Loss Development
In the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, favorable catastrophe development was $16.6 million and $20.5 million, respectively. The favorable catastrophe development during the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily due to lower than expected losses related to certain 2017, 2018, and 2019 windstorms, winter storms and hurricanes and the 2017 and 2018 California wildfires. The favorable catastrophe development during the nine months ended September 30, 2019 was primarily due to lower than expected losses related to the 2017 and 2018 California wildfires, including the sale of subrogation rights on certain California wildfire losses, and lower than expected losses related to the 2018 hurricanes.
37
Table of Contents
2020 Loss and LAE Development, excluding catastrophes
For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, net favorable loss and LAE development, excluding catastrophes, was $9.5 million. Lower than expected losses in the workers’ compensation line of $25.6 million in accident years 2016 through 2019 and other commercial lines of $11.1 million were partially offset by higher than expected losses in the commercial multiple peril line of $13.3 million, in accident years 2016, 2017 and 2019, and the commercial automobile line of $10.7 million, driven by higher bodily injury and personal injury protection losses, primarily in accident years 2017 through 2019. Within other commercial lines, lower than expected losses in our marine line of $13.1 million, in accident years 2017 through 2019, and specialty industrial property and commercial miscellaneous property lines were partially offset by higher than expected losses in the general liability lines. The adverse prior year development for our Other Segment was due to our run-off voluntary assumed property and casualty reinsurance pools business primarily based on an updated third-party actuarial study received in the first quarter of 2020 for the legacy Excess and Casualty Reinsurance Association (“ECRA”) pool that consists of asbestos and environmental exposures.
2019 Loss and LAE Development, excluding catastrophes
For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, net unfavorable loss and LAE development, excluding catastrophes, was $0.2 million. Higher than expected losses in the personal automobile line of $13.9 million, primarily in accident years 2016 and 2017, and the commercial automobile line were substantially offset by lower than expected losses in the workers’ compensation line of $15.7 million, primarily in accident years 2016 through 2018. Within other commercial lines, lower than expected losses in the marine and commercial miscellaneous property lines were partially offset by higher than expected losses in the general liability lines. In addition, Other Segment unfavorable development of $0.9 million was due to adverse loss trends in our run-off voluntary assumed property and casualty reinsurance pools business which includes asbestos and environmental reserves.
Reinsurance Recoverables
Reinsurance recoverables were $1,841.1 million and $1,814.0 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, of which $76.0 million and $89.8 million represent billed recoverables. A reinsurance recoverable is billed after an eligible reinsured claim is paid by an insurer. Billed reinsurance recoverables related to the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association (the “MCCA”) were $33.7 million and $29.2 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively, and billed non-MCCA reinsurance recoverables totaled $42.3 million and $60.6 million at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, respectively. At September 30, 2020, $2.2 million of the billed non-MCCA recoverables were outstanding greater than 90 days, whereas at December 31, 2019, there were no balances outstanding greater than 90 days.
Investments
Investment Results
Net investment income before income taxes was as follows:
Three Months Ended September 30,
Nine Months Ended September 30,
(dollars in millions)
2020
2019
2020
2019
Fixed maturities
$
55.3
$
58.1
$
167.7
$
173.9
Mortgage loans
4.5
4.1
13.1
12.0
Equity securities
3.4
4.0
10.8
11.6
Limited partnerships
6.0
3.8
8.0
13.1
Other investments
0.7
1.0
2.4
4.2
Investment expenses
(2.3
)
(2.2
)
(7.1
)
(6.2
)
Net investment income
$
67.6
$
68.8
$
194.9
$
208.6
Earned yield, fixed maturities
3.26
%
3.55
%
3.38
%
3.57
%
Earned yield, total portfolio
3.37
%
3.57
%
3.32
%
3.62
%
The decrease in net investment income for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily due to the impact of lower new money yields and the deployment of cash during 2019 for accelerated share repurchases and special dividends. These decreases were partially offset by higher partnership income and the continued investment of operational cash flows. The decrease in net investment income for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 was primarily due to the deployment of cash during 2019 for accelerated share repurchases and special dividends, the impact of lower new money yields and lower partnership income. These decreases were partially offset by the continued investment of operational cash flows. We expect average fixed income yields to continue to decline as new money rates remain lower than our embedded book yield.
38
Table of Contents
Investment Portfolio
We held cash and investment assets diversified across several asset classes, as follows:
September 30, 2020
December 31, 2019
(dollars in millions)
Carrying
Value
% of Total
Carrying Value
Carrying
Value
% of Total
Carrying Value
Fixed maturities, at fair value
$
7,473.0
83.4
%
$
6,687.1
81.4
%
Equity securities, at fair value
490.5
5.5
575.7
7.0
Mortgage and other loans
457.2
5.1
441.2
5.4
Other investments
306.7
3.4
292.0
3.6
Cash and cash equivalents
231.5
2.6
215.7
2.6
Total cash and investments
$
8,958.9
100.0
%
$
8,211.7
100.0
%
Cash and Investments
Total cash and investments increased $747.2 million, or 9.1%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, as compared to December 31, 2019, primarily due to operational cashflows, market value appreciation and the net proceeds from our senior debt issuance in August 2020. These increases were partially offset by the funding of financing activities, including our debt retirement, stock repurchases and dividend payments.
The following table provides information about the investment types of our fixed maturities portfolio:
September 30, 2020
(in millions)
Investment Type
Amortized Cost, net of Allowance for Credit Losses
Fair Value
Net Unrealized
Gains
Change in Net
Unrealized
For the Year
U.S. Treasury and government agencies
$
353.9
$
373.6
$
19.7
$
11.9
Foreign government
4.2
4.7
0.5
0.1
Municipals:
Taxable
993.5
1,050.9
57.4
32.2
Tax-exempt
39.8
41.4
1.6
0.4
Corporate
3,807.1
4,121.7
314.6
156.9
Asset-backed:
Residential mortgage-backed
1,017.8
1,056.0
38.2
22.2
Commercial mortgage-backed
695.6
749.1
53.5
28.0
Asset-backed
72.8
75.6
2.8
1.7
Total fixed maturities
$
6,984.7
$
7,473.0
$
488.3
$
253.4
The increase in net unrealized gains on fixed maturities was primarily due to lower prevailing interest rates partially offset by wider credit spreads.
Amortized cost and fair value by rating category were as follows:
September 30, 2020
December 31, 2019
(dollars in millions)
NAIC Designation
Rating Agency
Equivalent Designation
Amortized Cost, net of Allowance for Credit Losses
Fair
Value
% of Total
Fair Value
Amortized
Cost
Fair
Value
% of Total
Fair Value
1
Aaa/Aa/A
$
4,656.1
$
4,966.1
66.4
%
$
4,373.0
$
4,522.7
67.6
%
2
Baa
2,043.7
2,209.1
29.6
1,785.2
1,857.6
27.8
3
Ba
157.0
163.3
2.2
160.2
167.6
2.6
4
B
120.4
125.9
1.7
130.2
135.2
2.0
5
Caa and lower
7.1
7.1
0.1
2.0
2.2
—
6
In or near default
0.4
1.5
—
1.6
1.8
—
Total fixed maturities
$
6,984.7
$
7,473.0
100.0
%
$
6,452.2
$
6,687.1
100.0
%
39
Table of Contents
Based on ratings by the National Association of Insurance Commissi oners (“NAIC”), approximately 96 % and 95% of the fixed maturity portfolio consisted of investment grade securities at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 201 9 , respectively . The quality of our fixed maturity portfolio remains strong based on ratings, capital structure position, support through guarantees, underlying security, issuer diversification and yield curve position.
Our investment portfolio primarily consists of fixed maturity securities whose fair value is susceptible to market risk, including interest rate changes. See also “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” included in Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contained in our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Duration is a measurement used to quantify our inherent interest rate risk and analyze invested assets relative to our reserve liabilities.
The duration of our fixed maturity portfolio was as follows:
September 30, 2020
December 31, 2019
(dollars in millions)
Duration
Amortized Cost, net of Allowance for Credit Losses
Fair Value
% of Total
Fair Value
Amortized
Cost
Fair Value
% of Total
Fair Value
0-2 years
$
1,595.8
$
1,650.2
22.1
%
$
1,253.1
$
1,276.0
19.1
%
2-4 years
1,624.9
1,733.8
23.2
1,811.9
1,872.9
28.0
4-6 years
1,701.5
1,867.6
25.0
1,841.2
1,917.0
28.7
6-8 years
1,060.7
1,174.2
15.7
1,113.9
1,177.2
17.6
8-10 years
743.7
773.4
10.3
316.2
322.2
4.8
10+ years
258.1
273.8
3.7
115.9
121.8
1.8
Total fixed maturities
$
6,984.7
$
7,473.0
100.0
%
$
6,452.2
$
6,687.1
100.0
%
Weighted average duration
4.7
4.3
Our fixed maturity and equity securities are carried at fair value. Financial instruments whose value was determined using significant management judgment or estimation constituted less than 1% of the total assets we measured at fair value. See also Note 4 – “Fair Value” in the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements.
Equity securities primarily consist of U.S. income-oriented large capitalization common stocks and developed market equity index exchange-traded funds.
Mortgage and other loans consist primarily of commercial mortgage loan participations which represent our interest in commercial mortgage loans originated by a third party. We share, on a pro-rata basis, in all related cash flows of the underlying mortgage loans, which are investment-grade quality and diversified by geographic area and property type.
Other investments consist primarily of our interest in corporate middle market and real estate limited partnerships. Corporate middle market limited partnerships may invest in senior or subordinated debt, preferred or common equity or a combination thereof, of middle market businesses. Real estate limited partnerships hold equity ownership positions in real properties and invest in debt secured by real properties. Our limited partnerships are generally accounted for under the equity method, or as a practical expedient using the fund’s net asset value, with financial information provided by the partnership on a two or three month lag.
Although we expect to invest new funds primarily in investment grade fixed maturities, we have invested, and expect to continue to invest, a portion of funds in limited partnerships, common equity securities, below investment grade fixed maturities and other investment assets.
Impairments
For the three months ended September 30, 2020, we recognized $0.8 million of impairments, consisting primarily of additional credit losses on mortgage loans partially offset by recoveries of credit losses on fixed maturities, primarily resulting from increased market values during the quarter. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, we recognized $27.9 million of impairments, consisting primarily of $19.1 million on fixed maturities and $6.6 million on mortgage loans. Impairments on fixed maturities included $16.5 million categorized as intend-to-sell and $2.6 million of credit-related losses, primarily in the energy sector, and to a lesser degree, consumer non-cyclical and consumer cyclical sectors. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2019, we recognized $0.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively, of other-than-temporary impairments on corporate fixed maturity securities. At September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019, the allowance for credit losses on mortgage loans was $7.8 million and $1.3 million, respectively. The allowance for credit losses on available-for-sale securities was $1.6 million at September 30, 2020. There was no allowance for credit losses on available-for-sale securities at December 31, 2019.
The carrying values of fixed maturity securities on non-accrual status at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019 were not material. The effects of non-accruals for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, compared with amounts that would have been recognized in accordance with the original terms of the fixed maturities, were also not material. Any defaults in the fixed maturities portfolio in future periods may negatively affect investment income.
40
Table of Contents
Unrealized Losses
Gross unrealized losses on fixed maturities at September 30, 2020 were $2.5 million, a decrease of $5.1 million compared to December 31, 2019, primarily attributable to lower interest rates, partially offset by wider credit spreads. At September 30, 2020, gross unrealized losses consisted primarily of $1.7 million on corporate fixed maturities, $0.3 million on U. S. government securities and $0.3 million on residential mortgage-backed securities. See Note 3 – “Investments” in the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements.
We view gross unrealized losses on fixed maturities as non-credit related since it is our assessment that these securities will recover, allowing us to realize their anticipated long-term economic value. Further, we do not intend to sell, nor is it more likely than not we will be required to sell, such debt securities before this expected recovery of amortized cost (See also “Liquidity and Capital Resources” ). Inherent in our assessment are the risks that market factors may differ from our expectations; the global economic downturn resulting from the Pandemic is longer and more severe than current expectations; we may decide to subsequently sell a security for unforeseen business needs; or changes in the credit assessment from our original assessment may lead us to determine that a sale at the current value would maximize recovery on such investments. To the extent that there are such adverse changes, an impairment would be recognized as a realized loss. Although unrealized losses on fixed maturities are not reflected in the results of financial operations until they are realized, the fair value of the underlying investment, which does reflect the unrealized loss, is reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The following table sets forth gross unrealized losses for fixed maturities by maturity period at September 30, 2020 and December 31, 2019. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because borrowers may have the right to call or prepay obligations, with or without call or prepayment penalties, or we may have the right to put or sell the obligations back to the issuers.
September 30,
December 31,
(in millions)
2020
2019
Due after one year through five years
$
0.4
$
1.1
Due after five years through ten years
0.8
3.3
Due after ten years
0.9
2.0
2.1
6.4
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities
0.4
1.2
Total fixed maturities
$
2.5
$
7.6
Our investment portfolio and shareholders’ equity can be significantly impacted by changes in market values of our securities. Market volatility could increase and defaults on fixed income securities could occur. As a result, we could incur additional realized and unrealized losses in future periods, which could have a material adverse impact on our results of operations and/or financial position.
In the first nine months of 2020, the Pandemic resulted in widespread economic disruption due to various government-mandated emergency orders, consumer and business uncertainty, and forced business closures. Financial markets have substantially recovered from the significant declines experienced earlier in the year; however, the economic outlook remains uncertain as a resurgence of the infection rate is being experienced in many U.S. states. Unemployment rates remain elevated, many corporations have eliminated forward revenue and earnings guidance, several foreign countries have placed restrictions on travel by U.S. citizens and many small businesses remain closed. The U.S. government and its agencies have taken extraordinary measures to stabilize the economy through fiscal policy actions, such as passage of the CARES Act and other bills that will provide roughly $3 trillion in economic support. These actions have muted the recessionary dynamics that occur in a downturn and have supported a strong but incomplete recovery of the labor markets. It is unclear whether such actions will be sufficient to minimize the economic recession in the near and intermediate term, and what effect such unprecedented events will ultimately have on our investment portfolio.
Due to the Pandemic, global monetary policies have become extremely accommodative in support of financial market stability. Major central banks have lowered interest rates, relaxed collateral requirements and instituted various asset purchase programs to stabilize financial markets and support economic growth. In the U.S., for example, the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) is maintaining its federal funds target range at 0% to 0.25% and is conducting unprecedented quantities of asset purchases. Additionally, lending facilities have been established to support the flow of credit to households, businesses and state and local governments. However, because the Pandemic still poses considerable downside risks to economic activity and labor markets over the medium term, U.S. government officials are working toward another round of fiscal policy actions to support the economy and the flow of credit to households and businesses experiencing the greatest financial impact from the Pandemic.
Fundamental conditions in certain corporate sectors are particularly tenuous, especially in the energy sector where the decline in global demand has driven meaningful declines in the value of our holdings of related fixed maturities. Further, the lodging, restaurant and transportation services subsectors are severely impacted by the Pandemic. We may experience defaults on fixed income securities, particularly with respect to non-investment grade debt securities. Although we perform rigorous credit analysis of our fixed income investments, it is difficult to foresee which issuers, industries or markets will be most affected. As a result, the value of our fixed maturity portfolio could change rapidly in ways we cannot currently anticipate, and we could incur additional realized and unrealized losses in future periods.
41
Table of Contents
Other Items
Net income also included the following items:
Three Months Ended September 30,
(in millions)
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Discontinued
Operations
Total
2020
Net realized and unrealized investment gains
$
25.3
$
12.2
$
0.2
$
—
$
37.7
Loss from repayment of debt
—
—
(6.1
)
—
(6.1
)
Discontinued life businesses
—
—
—
(0.6
)
(0.6
)
2019
Net realized and unrealized investment gains
$
10.1
$
4.5
$
0.2
$
—
$
14.8
Discontinued operations - Chaucer business, including
sale, net of taxes
—
—
—
8.5
8.5
Discontinued life businesses
—
—
—
(0.8
)
(0.8
)
Nine Months Ended September 30,
(in millions)
Commercial
Lines
Personal
Lines
Other
Discontinued
Operations
Total
2020
Net realized and unrealized investment losses
$
(40.1
)
$
(15.9
)
$
(4.2
)
$
—
$
(60.2
)
Loss from repayment of debt
—
—
(6.2
)
—
(6.2
)
Discontinued life businesses
—
—
—
(2.0
)
(2.0
)
2019
Net realized and unrealized investment gains (losses)
$
52.3
$
23.3
$
(0.5
)
$
—
$
75.1
Discontinued operations - Chaucer business, including
sale, net of taxes
—
—
—
(1.0
)
(1.0
)
Discontinued life businesses
—
—
—
(2.5
)
(2.5
)
We manage investment assets for our Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other segments based on the requirements of our combined property and casualty companies. We allocate the investment income, expenses and realized gains and losses to our Commercial Lines, Personal Lines and Other segments based on actuarial information related to the underlying businesses. We managed investment assets separately for our former Chaucer business.
Net realized and unrealized gains on investment were $37.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020, compared to $14.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2019. Net realized and unrealized gains in both 2020 and 2019 were primarily due to changes in the fair value of equity securities.
Net realized and unrealized losses on investment were $60.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020, compared to net realized and unrealized gains of $75.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2019. For the nine months ended September 30, 2020, net realized and unrealized losses were primarily due to changes in the fair value of equity securities and, to a lesser extent, from impairment losses on investments. For the nine months ended September 30, 2019, net realized and unrealized gains were primarily due to changes in the fair value of equity securities.
On September 19, 2020, we redeemed our outstanding $175.0 million principal amount of 6.35% subordinated debentures due 2053. We recognized the remaining $6.1 million of unamortized debt issuance costs associated with this debt.
Discontinued operations in 2020 include our discontinued accident and health and life businesses. In 2019, our discontinued operations primarily included our former Chaucer business and, to a lesser extent, our discontinued life business. For the three months and nine months ended September 30, 2019, results related to our discontinued Chaucer business, including the sale, net of taxes, primarily reflects a revision to our best estimate of Chaucer’s 2018 catastrophe losses, which reduced our estimate of pre-tax contingent proceeds by $13.5 million. This was partially offset by gains from the sale of the Chaucer-related Australian and Irish entities for the nine month period. Losses of $2.0 million and $2.5 million in the discontinued life businesses for the nine months ended September 30 , 2020 and 2019, respectively, primarily reflect adverse loss trends related to the long-term care pool.
42
Table of Contents
Income Taxes
We are subject to the tax laws and regulations of the U.S. and foreign countries in which we operate. We file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return that includes our holding company and its U.S. subsidiaries. Generally, taxes are accrued at the U.S. statutory tax rate of 21% for income from U.S. operations. We accrue taxes on certain non-U.S. income that is subject to U.S. tax at the enacted U.S. tax rate. Foreign tax credits, where available, are utilized to offset U.S. tax as permitted.
Three Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2019
The provision for income taxes from continuing operations was an expense of $29.1 million and $19.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions resulted in consolidated effective federal tax rates of 19.6% and 14.7% for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions reflect benefits related to tax planning strategies implemented in prior years of $2.5 million and $3.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. In addition, these provisions also included excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $0.1 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Lastly, the provision for 2019 includes a benefit of $4.4 million, which reflects the effect of changes in the tax law related to the 2018 sale of Chaucer. Absent these items, the provision for income taxes would have been an expense of $31.7 million, or 21.3%, and $27.2 million, or 20.9%, for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The income tax provision on operating income was an expense of $25.1 million and $23.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions resulted in effective tax rates for operating income of 21.2% and 20.4% for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions include excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $0.1 million and $0.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Absent this item, the provision for income taxes would have been an expense of $25.2 million, or 21.2%, and $24.4 million, or 20.9%, for the three months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2020 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2019
The provision for income taxes from continuing operations was an expense of $41.7 million and $69.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions resulted in consolidated effective federal tax rates of 17.5% and 18.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions reflect benefits related to tax planning strategies implemented in prior years of $6.9 million and $10.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. In addition, these provisions also included excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $2.0 million and $2.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Finally, the provision for 2019 includes a charge of $1.2 million, which reflects the effect of changes in the tax law related to the 2018 sale of Chaucer. Absent these items, the provision for income taxes would have been an expense of $50.6 million, or 21.3%, and $81.7 million, or 21.0%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
The income tax provision on operating income was an expense of $62.8 million and $63.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions resulted in effective tax rates for operating income of 20.5% and 20.2% for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. These provisions include excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation of $2.0 million and $2.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively. Absent this item, the provision for income taxes would have been an expense of $64.8 million, or 21.2%, and $66.2 million, or 21.0%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2020 and 2019, respectively.
43
Table of Contents
Critical Accounting Estimates
Interim consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with U.S. GAAP and include certain accounting policies that we consider to be critical due to the amount of judgment and uncertainty inherent in the application of those policies. While we believe that the amounts included in our consolidated financial statements reflect our best judgment, the use of different assumptions could produce materially different accounting estimates. As disclosed in our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K, we believe the following accounting estimates are critical to our operations and require the most subjective and complex judgment:
•
Reserve for losses and loss expenses
•
Reinsurance recoverable balances
•
Pension benefit obligations
•
Deferred taxes
For a more detailed discussion of these critical accounting estimates, see our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Additionally, as a result of the recent economic disruption to the financial markets and overall challenges to economic conditions worldwide as a result of the Pandemic, we experienced a higher level of impairments in the first nine months of 2020 than in recent years. Accordingly, the following critical accounting estimate has been added.
INVESTMENT CREDIT LOSSES
We employ a systematic methodology to evaluate declines in fair values below amortized cost for all fixed maturity investments. The methodology utilizes a quantitative and qualitative process that seeks to ensure that available evidence concerning the declines in fair value below amortized cost is evaluated in a disciplined manner. In determining whether a decline in fair value below amortized cost should be recorded as an impairment, we evaluate several factors and circumstances, including the issuer’s overall financial condition; the issuer’s credit and financial strength ratings; the issuer’s financial performance, including earnings trends, dividend payments and asset quality; any specific events which may influence the operations of the issuer; the general outlook for market conditions in the industry or geographic region in which the issuer operates; and the degree to which the fair value of an issuer’s securities is below our cost. We consider factors that might raise doubt about the issuer’s ability to make contractual payments as they become due and whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security.
We monitor corporate fixed maturity securities with unrealized losses on a quarterly basis and more frequently when necessary to identify potential credit deterioration, as evidenced by ratings downgrades, unexpected price variances, and/or company or industry specific concerns. We apply consistent standards of credit analysis which includes determining whether the issuer is current on its contractual payments, and we consider past events, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts to evaluate whether we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. We utilize valuation declines as a potential indicator of credit deterioration and apply additional levels of scrutiny in our analysis as the severity of the decline increases.
For our impairment review of asset-backed fixed maturity securities, we forecast our best estimate of the prospective future cash flows of the security to determine if we expect to recover the entire amortized cost basis of the security. Our analysis includes estimates of underlying collateral default rates based on historical and projected delinquency rates and estimates of the amount and timing of potential recovery. We consider available information relevant to the collectability of cash flows, including information about the payment terms of the security, prepayment speeds, the financial condition of the underlying borrowers, collateral trustee reports, credit ratings analysis and other market data when developing our estimate of the expected cash flows.
When an impairment of a fixed maturity security occurs, and we intend to sell or more likely than not will be required to sell the investment before recovery of its amortized cost basis, the amortized cost of the security is reduced to its fair value, with a corresponding charge to earnings, which reduces net income and earnings per share. If we do not intend to sell the fixed maturity investment or more likely than not will not be required to sell it, we separate the impairment into the amount we estimate represents the credit loss and the amount related to all other factors. The amount of the estimated loss attributable to credit is recognized in earnings, which reduces net income and earnings per share.
We estimate the amount of the credit impairment by comparing the amortized cost of the fixed maturity security with the net present value of the fixed maturity security’s projected future cash flows, discounted at the effective interest rate implicit in the investment prior to impairment.
Declines in market value which are not credit loss related are recorded as unrealized losses, which do not affect net income and earnings per share, but reduce accumulated other comprehensive income, which is reflected in our Consolidated Balance Sheets. We cannot provide assurance that the impairments will be adequate to cover future losses or that we will not have substantial additional impairments in the future. See Note 3 — “Investments” in the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion regarding impairments and securities in an unrealized loss position.
44
Table of Contents
Statutory Surplus of Insurance Subsidiaries
The following table reflects statutory surplus for our insurance subsidiaries:
September 30,
December 31,
(in millions)
2020
2019
Total Statutory Capital and Surplus
$
2,422.3
$
2,470.2
The statutory capital and surplus for our insurance subsidiaries decreased $47.9 million during the first nine months of 2020. This decrease was primarily due to the payment of a $245 million dividend and from unrealized and realized net investment losses, primarily due to changes in the fair value of equity securities. These decreases were partially offset by underwriting profits.
The NAIC prescribes an annual calculation regarding risk-based capital (“RBC”). RBC ratios for regulatory purposes are expressed as a percentage of the capital required to be above the Authorized Control Level (the “Regulatory Scale”); however, in the insurance industry, RBC ratios are widely expressed as a percentage of the Company Action Level. The following table reflects the Company Action Level, the Authorized Control Level and RBC ratios for Hanover Insurance (which includes Citizens and other insurance subsidiaries), as of September 30, 2020, expressed both on the Industry Scale (Total Adjusted Capital divided by the Company Action Level) and Regulatory Scale (Total Adjusted Capital divided by Authorized Control Level):
(dollars in millions)
Company
Action Level
Authorized
Control Level
RBC Ratio
Industry Scale
RBC Ratio
Regulatory Scale
The Hanover Insurance Company
$
1,095.7
$
547.8
220
%
441
%
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity is a measure of our ability to generate sufficient cash flows to meet the cash requirements of business operations. As a holding company, our primary ongoing source of cash is dividends from our insurance subsidiaries. However, dividend payments to us by our insurance subsidiaries are subject to limitations imposed by regulators, such as prior notice periods and the requirement that dividends in excess of a specified percentage of statutory surplus or prior year’s statutory earnings receive prior approval (so called “extraordinary dividends”). During the first nine months of 2020, Hanover Insurance paid $245.0 million in dividends to the holding company.
Sources of cash for our insurance subsidiaries primarily consist of premiums collected, investment income and maturing investments. Primary cash outflows are payments for losses and loss adjustment expenses, policy and contract acquisition expenses, other underwriting expenses and investment purchases. Cash outflows related to losses and loss adjustment expenses can be variable because of uncertainties surrounding settlement dates for liabilities for unpaid losses and because of the potential for large losses either individually or in the aggregate. We periodically adjust our investment policy to respond to changes in short-term and long-term cash requirements.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $546.6 million during the first nine months of 2020, as compared to $423.9 million during the first nine months of 2019. The $122.7 million increase in cash provided was primarily due to a decrease in loss payments, an increase in premiums received and, to a lesser extent, the result of lower federal income tax payments in the first nine months of 2020, compared to the first nine months of 2019.
Net cash used in investing activities was $480.3 million during the first nine months of 2020, as compared to $505.2 million during the first nine months of 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, cash used in investing activities primarily related to net purchases of fixed maturities. During the first nine months of 2019, cash used in investing activities primarily related to net purchases of fixed maturities and, to a lesser extent, equity securities and other investments, partially offset by net proceeds received from the sale of the Chaucer-related Irish and Australian entities.
Net cash used in financing activities was $50.5 million during the first nine months of 2020, as compared to $785.1 million during the first nine months of 2019. During the first nine months of 2020, cash used in financing activities primarily resulted from the repayment of debt, the repurchase of common stock and three quarterly dividend payments to shareholders, offset by net proceeds received from debt borrowings. During the first nine months of 2019, cash used in financing activities primarily resulted from repurchases of common stock through two accelerated share repurchase (“ASR”) agreements, the payments of a special dividend and three quarterly dividends to shareholders, and the repayment of the Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) advances.
Dividends to common shareholders are subject to quarterly board approval and declaration. During the first nine months of 2020, as declared by the Board, we paid three quarterly dividends of $0.65 per share to our shareholders totaling approximately $74 million. We believe that our holding company assets are sufficient to provide for future shareholder dividends should the Board of Directors declare them.
45
Table of Contents
At September 30 , 2020 , THG, as a holding company, held approximately $ 528 .4 million of fixed maturities and cash. We believe our holding company assets will be sufficient to meet our current year obligations, which we expect to consist primarily of quarterly dividends to our shareholders (as and to the extent declared), interest on our senior and subordinated debentures, certain costs associated with benefits due to our former life employees and agents, and, to the extent required, payments related to indemnification of liabilities associated with the sale of various subsidiaries. As discussed below, we have, and opportunistically may continue to, repurchase our common stock and our deb t . We do not expect that it will be necessary to dividend additional funds from our insurance subsidiaries in order to fund 20 20 holding company obligations; however, we may decide to do so.
We expect to continue to generate sufficient positive operating cash to meet all short-term and long-term cash requirements relating to current operations, including the funding of our qualified defined benefit pension plan. The ultimate payment amounts for our benefit plan is based on several assumptions, including but not limited to, the rate of return on plan assets, the discount rate for benefit obligations, mortality experience, interest crediting rates, inflation and the ultimate valuation and determination of benefit obligations. Since differences between actual plan experience and our assumptions are almost certain, changes, both positive and negative, to our current funding status and ultimately our obligations in future periods are likely.
Our insurance subsidiaries maintain a high degree of liquidity within their respective investment portfolios in fixed maturity and short-term investments. We believe that the quality of the assets we hold will allow us to realize the long-term economic value of our portfolio, including securities that are currently in an unrealized loss position. We do not anticipate the need to sell these securities to meet our insurance subsidiaries’ cash requirements since we expect our insurance subsidiaries to generate sufficient operating cash to meet all short-term and long-term cash requirements relating to current operations. However, there can be no assurance that unforeseen business needs or other items, including any effects of the Pandemic or associated legislative, judicial or regulatory actions on our liquidity and investment portfolio, will not occur causing us to have to sell those securities in a loss position before their values fully recover, thereby causing us to recognize impairment charges in that time period.
The Board of Directors has authorized a stock repurchase program which provides for aggregate repurchases of our common stock of up to $900 million. Under the repurchase authorization, we may repurchase, from time to time, common stock in amounts, at prices and at such times as we deem appropriate, subject to market conditions and other considerations. Repurchases may be executed using open market purchases, privately negotiated transactions, accelerated repurchase programs or other transactions. We are not required to purchase any specific number of shares or to make purchases by any certain date under this program. On December 9, 2019, pursuant to the terms of an ASR agreement (the “December 2019 ASR”) we paid $150.0 million in exchange for shares of our common stock. Under the terms of the December 2019 ASR, we received an initial delivery of approximately 0.9 million shares of our common stock. On February 26, 2020, we received approximately 0.2 million shares of our common stock as final settlement of shares repurchased under the December 2019 ASR. In addition to the shares repurchased under the December 2019 ASR, during the first nine months of 2020 we repurchased approximately 1.0 million shares at an aggregate cost of $94.3 million. As of September 30 , 2020, we have repurchased 5.4 million shares under this $900 million program and have approximately $242 million available for additional repurchases.
On October 27, 2020, we entered into a new ASR agreement (the “October 2020 ASR”), pursuant to which we will pay $100.0 million in exchange for shares of our common stock. Initial share delivery, of approximately 80% of the total number of shares expected to be received under this agreement, is scheduled for October 29, 2020. Final settlement of the October 2020 ASR is expected to occur not later than February 3, 2021.
On August 24, 2020, we issued $300.0 million aggregate principal amount of 2.50% senior unsecured debentures due September 1, 2030. Net proceeds of the debt issuance were $297.7 million. A portion of the net proceeds was used to redeem $175.0 million outstanding 6.35% subordinated notes due 2053, resulting in a pre-tax loss of $6.1 million, related primarily to the accelerated amortization of debt issuance costs.
We maintain our membership in FHLB which provides us with access to additional liquidity based on our stock holdings and pledged collateral. At September 30 , 2020, we had borrowing capacity of $108.0 million. There were no outstanding borrowings under this short-term facility at September 30 , 2020; however, we have and may continue to borrow, from time to time, through this facility to provide short-term liquidity.
46
Table of Contents
On April 30, 2019, we entered into a new credit agreement that provides for a five-year unsecured revolving credit facility not to exceed $200.0 million at any one time outstanding, with the option to increase the facili ty up to $300.0 million (assuming no default and satisfaction of other specified conditions, including the receipt o f additional lender commitments ) . The agreement also includes an uncommitted subfacility of $50.0 million for standby letters of credit. Borrowings, if any, under this new agreement are unsecured and incur interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our election, either (i) the greater of, (a) the prime commercial lending rate of the administrative agent, (b) the NYFRB Rate plus half a percent, or (c) the one month Adjusted LIBOR plus one percent and a margin that ranges from 0.25% to 0.625% depending on our debt rating, or (ii) Adjusted LIBOR for the applicable interest period, plus a margin that ranges from 1.25% to 1.625% depending on our debt rating. The agreement also contains certain financial covenants such as maintenance of specified levels of consolidated equity and leverage ratios, and requires that certain of our subsidiaries maintain minimum RBC ratios. We currently have no borrowings under this agreement and h ad no borrowings under this agreement during the first nine months of 20 20 . The LIBOR rate, upon which Adjusted LIBOR is based, is expected to be discontinued by the end of 2021. Our credit agreement permits us to agree with the Administrative Agent for the credit facility on a replacement to Adjusted LIBOR subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.
At September 30, 2020, we were in compliance with the covenants of our debt and credit agreements.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We currently do not have any material off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have an effect on our financial position, revenues, expenses, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures, or capital resources.
Contingencies and Regulatory Matters
REGULATORY AND INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS
In response to the Pandemic, regulators in many of the states in which we operate have issued orders or guidance pertaining to, among other things, (a) premium refunds, credits or reductions for personal automobile insurance premiums and premiums for other insurance lines that regulators have determined are disproportionately impacted by the Pandemic, including certain commercial lines, for the periods during which stay-at-home orders and other governmental restrictions were or remain in effect, with premium adjustments based on factors such as the ongoing frequency and severity of claims, inflation, repair costs and reinsurance pricing, among others; (b) premium payment grace periods, moratoriums on policy non-renewals and cancellations, and other measures that are similar to actions historically implemented in regions heavily impacted by catastrophes, which we anticipate to be manageable, depending on the duration of the regulatory orders and the degree to which policyholder payment patterns vary as a result; and (c) a reassessment of rates in light of current exposures, loss experience and economic conditions. Regulatory restrictions on rate increases, underwriting, policy terms, and the ability to non-renew business may, depending on their duration, limit THG’s ability to manage our mix of business and any potential exposures that emerge in our lines of business in the near term.
Draft legislation has been proposed in several state legislatures and/or in the United States Congress that seeks to require insurers to retroactively pay unfunded Pandemic business interruption claims that insurance policies do not currently cover, to impose presumptions on insurance policy interpretation, and/or to mandate prospective pandemic coverage. The impact of such legislation, were it to be adopted, would, according to a statement of the NAIC on March 25, 2020, “create substantial solvency risks” for the property and casualty insurance sector, “significantly undermine the ability of insurers to pay other types of claims, and potentially exacerbate the negative financial and economic impacts the country is currently experiencing.” Industry trade groups further assert that any such legislation would be violative of basic contract law and well-founded principles of constitutional law. Federal stimulus plans such as the CARES Act providing financial support to individuals and businesses during the Pandemic may mitigate the political pressure to continue advancing such proposed legislation.
Proposals are also being considered at the federal level to establish government-funded pandemic insurance programs, possibly similar to the federal terrorism risk insurance program. Discussion on such competing proposals is ongoing and at a preliminary stage such that it is too early to estimate their potential impact, if any, on our business.
Information regarding litigation, legal contingencies and regulatory matters appears in Part I – Note 13 “Commitments and Contingencies” in the Notes to Interim Consolidated Financial Statements.
Risks and Forward-Looking Statements
Information regarding risk factors and forward-looking information appears in Part II – Item 1A of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and in Part I – Item 1A of our 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K. This Management’s Discussion and Analysis should be read and interpreted in light of such factors.
47
Table of Contents
Text extracted from the filing as submitted to EDGAR. Formatting, tables and exhibits are simplified for reading; the original document is authoritative for anything you rely on.